Chapter 23. Writing with Confidence

Many managers and executives understand that the highest-paid administrators are among the world’s best ghostwriters. The better your communication skills (especially writing), the more time you save your manager and the more valuable you become. Rate yourself as a writer by answering the following questions:

Yes

No

I always keep my audience in mind when I write. Do they want to know every fact or just the “bottom line”? Are there cultural issues?

I have no problem with the basics: grammar, spelling, and punctuation. (If your answer is “no,” buy a handbook and dictionary and take a brush-up class.)

I know the difference between active and passive construction, and try to use the active wherever possible. (Examples: Passive—The temp was hired by Mary. Active—Mary hired the temp.)